wicketkeeper

American

[wik-it-kee-per] / ˈwɪk ɪtˌki pər /

noun

Cricket.

the player on the fielding side who stands immediately behind the wicket to stop balls that pass it.

wicketkeeper British

/ ˈwɪkɪtˌkiːpə /

noun

cricket the player on the fielding side positioned directly behind the wicket

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of wicketkeeper

First recorded in 1740–50; wicket + keeper

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The T20 squads are the same as for the World Cup, while wicketkeeper Kira Chathli and all-rounder Jodi Grewcock earn their first call-ups for the one-day internationals against the White Ferns.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

Alice Capsey will be the back-up wicketkeeper to Amy Jones.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

Four India players are recognised for their part in the thrilling 2-2 Test series draw in England - captain Shubman Gill, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and pace bowler Mohammed Siraj.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

Batter Ollie Pope and wicketkeeper Jamie Smith will play for Surrey against Warwickshire when the Championship begins on Friday.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

Nick is the wicketkeeper of the Beckley eleven; long- limbed, wiry, keen of eye.

From Evan Harrington — Volume 2 by Meredith, George

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023